10 New Uses for Tin Cans
Some times of the year, I feel like I'm churning out tin cans like clockwork, and this is one of them. It's not just the canned pumpkin I'm using for holiday baking because I don't have time to roast and prepare my own squash. It's the cans of cat food for a little someone who's having some special
Posted — UpdatedTin cans, whether painted, left plain, or decorated in fresh paper, can make great lampshades, nightlights, and more. You can choose to leave the can whole (maybe you want to use a can with a vintage label as a hanging lamp over the table?) or you can pierce or cut it to create a decorative pattern.
Nothing worse than balls of yarn exploding all over the place, especially laceweight yarns. Keep your yarn firmly in hand with a tin can holder. Make sure to sand the edge well so it doesn't snag on the lip of the can as you're working.
Cut a series of slits down the side of a can (carefully! edges are sharp) with tin shears, and gently spread them out to create a cradle. Line with foil, add coals and a grill, and you have your very own miniature grill. Perfect for those with limited grilling space. (Remember: always grill outdoors, because the byproducts of combustion can be hazardous.)
You can get classic round cookies in a snap with a tin can, but you can also cut the edges and bend them into any shape you like for your desired cookie look. Be adventurous!
Finally, a note on that whole goat thing: you know the rumors about how goats will eat just about anything, including tin cans? Well...actually, goats, like other ruminants, have pretty fragile stomachs, and they need a balanced, healthy diet. Goats who chew on non-food items like tin cans may be looking for nutrition, and they should be evaluated by a vet or goat nutritionist. They may also be bored and looking for playthings, but there are far more appropriate goat toys out there!